CE marking and EU product rules
A practical overview of the EU rules most often relevant for manufacturers from China and other non-EU countries.
Short answer
CE marking shows that a product meets the EU requirements that apply to it. The manufacturer affixes it after carrying out the conformity assessment, drawing up the technical documentation and signing the EU Declaration of Conformity. Products outside CE legislation are covered by the General Product Safety Regulation.
Low Voltage Directive (LVD)
Electrical equipment from 50 to 1,000 V AC and 75 to 1,500 V DC.
Learn more →EMC Directive
Electromagnetic compatibility of electrical and electronic equipment.
Learn more →RoHS Directive
Restriction of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment.
Learn more →Radio Equipment Directive (RED)
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, RFID and other radio devices, including cybersecurity requirements.
Learn more →Toy Safety
Products designed or intended for play by children under 14 years.
Learn more →Personal Protective Equipment
Gloves, helmets, safety footwear, high-visibility clothing, masks and other PPE.
Learn more →General Product Safety (GPSR)
The safety net for all consumer products, with or without CE marking.
Learn more →Five steps to CE marking
- Identify all applicable directives and regulations
- Identify the harmonised standards and essential requirements
- Check whether a notified body is required
- Test the product and prepare the technical documentation
- Sign the EU Declaration of Conformity and affix the CE marking
Selling into the EU from outside Europe?
Tell us what you make and where you sell. We reply within one business day with the documents you need and a fixed quote.